The French Government honored singer Shakira with the prestigious medal of Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters yesterday at Hotel Makestic in Cannes, France.

The Colombian singer seemed very happy as she received the medal from France's Culture Minister Frederic Miterrand.

The Minister highlighted Shakira's "combination of voice, Latin style, determination and passionate feminity."

"This moment has made me feel the most honored in my career," the singer said in a statement.

Miterrand compared Shakira to other Latin stars like Gloria Estefan and Jennifer Lopez.

Tags: Shakira